2021 Patrick Sullivan Baw Baw Chardonnay

VARIETAL: Chardonnay
REGION: Gippsland, VIC
VITICULTURE: Biodynamic
WINEMAKER: Patrick Sullivan

The Bullswamp Vineyard was planted in 1982 by the Farrington family at the very edge of the Warragul township. The Baw Baw Chardonnay comes from the youngest plantings - 25 years old - of Chardonnay (I10V1 clone) that we farm. Deep, rich volcanic soils nourish what are dry-grown grape vines and elevation is 100m. This section of the vineyard faces south, with moderate airflow and exposure, producing fruit-driven wine with depth and minerality.

Whole clusters were crushed into the press and drained off into tank for settling. Primary fermentation took place in barrique (30% new) over three weeks, followed by complete malolactic. Lees stirring occurred twice toward the end of primary, then once more at the completion of malo. Mineral, melon sherbet, lemon zest and brioche.

Farmer-winemaker Patrick Sullivan can do it all. From tending to vines in rural Victoria at just age 12 on a school excursion to picking up a degree in viticulture, Patrick has now settled in West Gippsland. Farming biodynamically alongside the iconic Bill Downie, his "Tumblestone Farm" property consists of 69 hectares of ultra close-spacing vineyards (7000 vines/ha - woof) nestled amongst an acacia forest. Sitting on basalt volcanic soils over sandstone at the base of the Strzelecki Ranges, Patrick's wines are electric, inspired and truly world class.